moral
UK: ˈmɒrəl | US: ˈmɔːrəl
adj. relating to principles of right and wrong behavior
n. a lesson or principle derived from a story or experience
n. (morals) standards of behavior; ethical conduct
moral = mor<custom> + al<adjective suffix>
- mor (from Latin mos, moris meaning "custom, habit, manner")
- al (Latin-derived suffix forming adjectives, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word moral traces back to Latin moralis, coined by Cicero to translate Greek ēthikos (ethical). It originally referred to societal customs (mos) and later evolved to denote principles of right and wrong. The suffix -al solidified its role as an adjective describing ethical conduct. Over time, it expanded to include noun forms (e.g., "the moral of the story").
She faced a moral dilemma about reporting the incident.
The fable’s moral is to value honesty over wealth.
His actions were questioned on moral grounds.
The novel explores the moral decay of society.
Teaching children good morals is essential for their development.